A.POLICY

Zane State College is committed to ensuring that certificate programs meet the eligibility requirements for federal financial aid. This policy establishes the criteria and procedures for determining financial aid eligibility for certificate programs.

B.POLICY GUIDELINES

1.Program Development and Internal Approval

• Certificate programs must be designed to meet industry standards and educational objectives.
• Program proposals must undergo internal review and receive approval from relevant academic committees.

2.Financial Aid Eligibility Assessment

Certificate programs must meet minimum length and credit/clock hour requirements. For financial aid purposes, 1 credit hour is equivalent to 30 clock hours, with the exception of practicum/clinical hours, which are counted hour- for-hour (e.g., 150 practicum hours = 150 clock hours).

• There are two primary categories for certificate eligibility:
  • Short-Term Certificates (300-599 clock hours):
    1. Minimum of 10 weeks in length
    2. Approval from the Ohio Department of Higher Education (ODHE)
    3. Approval from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
    4. Gainful employment criteria must be researched (see Financial Aid Eligibility for Certificate Program Procedures)
    5. Evidence of at least 70% program completion and 70% job placement rates
  • Short-Term or One-Year Certificates (600 or more clock hours):
    1. Minimum of 10 weeks in length
    2. Approval from ODHE
    3. Approval from HLC
    4. Gainful employment criteria must be researched (see Financial Aid Eligibility for Certificate Program Procedures)